Leighton Beach
A stunning stretch of white sand with calm, clear waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and whale watching. Dog-friendly zones add to its appeal.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Prime whale watching season
Leighton Beach
Best Time
Prime whale watching season
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning stretch of white sand with calm, clear waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and whale watching. Dog-friendly zones add to its appeal.
"Fab white sand beach. All good. Don't tell anyone else - we don't want it to get too crowded!"
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking fills up fast, especially during whale season or weekends. Aim to arrive before 9 AM for the best spots.
🐳 Respect Wildlife
Keep a safe distance from whales and their calves. Enjoy the show without disturbing their natural behavior.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Whale Encounters
Shoreline
Witness majestic Southern Right Whales and their calves just meters from the beach. An unforgettable wildlife spectacle!

Calm Waters
Main beach area
Enjoy gentle waves perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding. Ideal for families and relaxed beach days.
Dog-Friendly Zone
Northern end
Bring your furry friends to play on the sand and splash in the water. A paradise for pups and their owners!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Whale Watching Wonders
Parking & Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking fills up fast, especially during whale season or weekends. Aim to arrive before 9 AM for the best spots.
🐳 Respect Wildlife
Keep a safe distance from whales and their calves. Enjoy the show without disturbing their natural behavior.
🐶 Doggy Day Out
The northern section is leash-free for dogs! Perfect for your furry companions to enjoy the sand and sea.
☕ Beachside Bites
Grab a coffee or acai bowl at The Beach Bus cafe. Pups are welcome too!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking fills up fast, especially during whale season or weekends. Aim to arrive before 9 AM for the best spots.
🐳 Respect Wildlife
Keep a safe distance from whales and their calves. Enjoy the show without disturbing their natural behavior.
🐶 Doggy Day Out
The northern section is leash-free for dogs! Perfect for your furry companions to enjoy the sand and sea.
☕ Beachside Bites
Grab a coffee or acai bowl at The Beach Bus cafe. Pups are welcome too!
🤿 Snorkel Gear
Bring your snorkel to explore the clear waters. You might even spot some marine life!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Leighton Beach is widely praised for its beautiful white sand, calm waters ideal for families, and convenient amenities like parking and cafes. Visitors also rave about the rare and exciting opportunities for whale watching. Some find the beach can get crowded, and dog presence is high on the northern end.
"Lovely beach.
Easy parking. Green promenade. Nice environment. Cafe. Toilets with changing areas and showers.
Fab white sand beach.
All good. Don't tell anyone else - we don't want it to get too crowded!
😎👍👍👍👍"
Mark Poley
"Pictures from the end of March. The beach has too many people bringing dogs (in majority) and the water turns dark quickly."
Philip Karlsson
"Good beach with plenty of parking. The beach also has a big changing room with shower and toilets. Compared to other beaches in Perth, Leighton is one of the calmest there is for family with kids. Very ideal for picnics!"
Luan Phan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Leighton Beach is easily accessible by car, located just north of Fremantle. There's ample parking available along Leighton Beach Boulevard. Public transport options include buses that run frequently from Fremantle.
Yes, there is a large parking area along Leighton Beach Boulevard. However, it can get very busy, especially during peak whale watching season or on weekends. Arriving early is recommended.
Absolutely! There are dedicated cycle paths along the coast, making it a scenic and enjoyable ride to Leighton Beach. Bike racks are available.
The promenade and cafe area are generally accessible. While the sand itself can be challenging, many visitors find the beach enjoyable with assistance.
You can take a train from Perth CBD to Fremantle Station and then catch a bus (e.g., the 103 or 150) towards Leighton Beach. Alternatively, a taxi or rideshare service is a quicker option.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Leighton Beach is a public beach and entry is free for everyone.
Leighton Beach is open 24/7, as it's a public natural space. However, facilities like toilets and showers have set operating hours, typically from sunrise to sunset.
There's no need to book in advance for general beach access. However, if you plan to visit with a large group or for an event, it's advisable to check local council regulations.
The main restriction is regarding dogs, which are only permitted off-leash on the northern section of the beach. Alcohol consumption is generally permitted but must be consumed responsibly.
Leighton Beach offers public toilets, changing rooms, outdoor showers, picnic tables, and a children's playground. There's also a popular cafe nearby.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Leighton Beach is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, windsurfing, paddleboarding, and simply relaxing on the sand. It's also a fantastic spot for whale watching during migration seasons.
Yes, Leighton Beach is very family-friendly due to its calm waters and gentle waves, making it safer for children. There's also a playground nearby.
Absolutely! The calm, clear waters make it ideal for swimming. Lifeguards are often on duty during peak seasons, but always swim between the flags if available.
The sand at Leighton Beach is described as beautiful, pure white, and soft. It's a lovely expanse for sunbathing and walking.
Leighton Beach is popular and can get crowded, especially on weekends and during whale sightings. However, its long stretch of sand means there's usually space for everyone.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, The Beach Bus cafe is located right on Leighton Beach, offering acai bowls, coffee, and other beachside treats. It's also dog-friendly.
Certainly! There are picnic tables available, and the spacious beach is perfect for spreading out a blanket. Remember to take all your rubbish with you.
Leighton Beach is close to Fremantle, which offers a wide array of dining options, from casual eateries to fine dining restaurants.
The Beach Bus typically operates throughout the year, but it's always a good idea to check their social media or website for current opening hours, especially during off-peak seasons.
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food and drinks to enjoy on the beach. Just ensure you clean up after yourself.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic photo opportunities are undoubtedly the whales close to shore. The expansive white sand, clear blue water, and sunsets also make for stunning shots.
Sunsets are spectacular at Leighton Beach, casting a warm glow over the ocean. Early mornings can also offer beautiful light with fewer people.
Drone usage is subject to strict regulations in Western Australia. Always check with the local authorities and ensure you have the necessary permits before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the beach and ocean. A telephoto lens is essential for wildlife photography, especially for whale watching.
The promenade offers elevated views, perfect for panoramic shots. For close-ups of whales, the shoreline itself provides the best vantage point.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Practical amenities like changing rooms, showers, and toilets make managing a day out with children much easier. The presence of picnic tables also encourages relaxed family meals with a view. For a treat, The Beach Bus cafe offers kid-friendly options like acai bowls. Remember that while parking is available, it can get busy, so planning your arrival time is key to a stress-free family outing.
🐶 Dog Owners
The Beach Bus cafe is also a bonus, as it welcomes dogs, allowing you to enjoy a coffee or snack with your pet by your side. The wide expanse of sand means there's plenty of room for both dogs and their owners to enjoy the beach without feeling cramped. Just be mindful of other beachgoers and ensure your dog is well-behaved and under control, even in the off-leash zone.
🌊 Water Sports Enthusiasts
If you're looking for a more relaxed aquatic experience, the calm swimming conditions are perfect for a refreshing dip or a leisurely swim. Snorkelers will also find the clear waters inviting, with opportunities to observe marine life close to shore. While not a major surf break, the gentle waves can still be fun for bodyboarding or learning to surf.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Whale Watching at Leighton Beach
When whale sightings occur, the beach buzzes with activity as people gather to witness the incredible display. Social media is flooded with videos and photos of these encounters, highlighting the unique experience Leighton Beach offers. While the excitement is palpable, it's crucial to remember the importance of responsible wildlife viewing. Visitors are urged to maintain a respectful distance, avoid sudden movements, and refrain from using flash photography to ensure the whales are not disturbed. The presence of these magnificent creatures transforms a beautiful beach into an extraordinary natural amphitheater.
It's worth noting that while initially identified as humpbacks by some, further observation and expert advice suggest they are more likely Southern Right Whales due to their distinctive features. Regardless of the species, the experience of seeing them so close is consistently described as breathtaking and a 'pinch me' moment. The calm waters of Leighton Beach provide a safe haven for these whales and their calves, offering a rare and intimate glimpse into their lives.
Beach Activities and Amenities
Beyond swimming and snorkeling, Leighton Beach is a hub for windsurfing and paddleboarding. The consistent, gentle breezes make it perfect for these sports, and you'll often see enthusiasts gliding across the water. The northern end of the beach is a designated dog-friendly zone, allowing your canine companions to run freely and enjoy the sand and sea off-leash. This makes it a truly inclusive spot for all members of the family, furry ones included!
Complementing the natural beauty are the excellent amenities. The Beach Bus cafe provides a convenient spot for refreshments, offering acai bowls and coffee right by the beach, and it's notably dog-friendly. Public facilities include toilets, changing rooms, and showers, ensuring a comfortable and convenient visit. Ample parking is available, though it can fill up quickly, so an early arrival is often recommended.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit